Situated over a vast stretch of beachfront property, once dry land, is a beautiful expanse of a 26-hectare farm thriving with lush vegetation, featuring a scenic view of the clear sea of Zambales. Tucked within its green surroundings rests a lovely abode that serves as the main artery of Zambawood. For all its visual gifts showcasing modern architectural design and stylish interiors, there is a remarkable tale of origin that needs to be known. The first time I met Rachel Harrison, I immediately noticed the marvel in her eyes while she narrated the inspiration behind Zambawood.
Zambawood: Where Luxury Beach Living Meets Purpose in Zambales
Julyan's Origin Story
The main protagonist of the tale of Zambawood is 22-year-old Julyan, the tall doppelgänger of a young Kyle MacLachlan. Diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder at a very early age, Julyan grew up like most kids with autism, having difficulty expressing himself. Daily tantrums, like throwing household objects, became a natural occurrence in the Harrison households in Europe and Singapore.
After years of being guided by top autism programs in first-world countries, Julyan still yearned for permanency—a home where he could truly thrive. Exhibiting a true mother’s instinct, Rachel decided it was best to set up base in her hometown of San Narciso in Zambales for Julyan to find a place he could call home.
An Architectural Country Retreat
Having graduated with an architecture degree, Rachel started designing the Zambawood house herself. Pooling inspiration from her world travels as a flight attendant and wife to her expatriate husband Keith, Rachel designed a 450-square-meter home that fuses post-modern design aesthetics with an indigenous wooden interior expressing a cozy country vibe suitable for a peaceful retreat.
Surrounded by undeveloped farmland, Rachel toiled alongside expert farmers until they were able to build and sustain an organic farm. Here, Julyan eventually found a new routine and, more importantly, an environment where he could indulge in activities like farming and cooking.
A Mother's Mission & Purpose
Rachel shared her reflections during our visit:
“It seems like children who have special needs find comfort in routine, and one of the activities my son loves to do is farming. It soothes him a lot! It was a joy to finally see my son happy and at ease. Because of his progress, we decided to improve this place and make it a suitable home that he—and others—will be comfortable in.”
More than a year after Zambawood first opened its doors to visitors, Rachel proudly explains its core mission:
“To instill fun and purpose, and to increase the happiness of adults with autism by helping them have lifelong purpose and friendship in the local community. Acting always with integrity, compassion, and fun.”
“Zambawood enables ‘exceptional adults’ to engage in activities and find greater meaning in their lives through our vocational and artisan training programs. As their skills and confidence increase, they are assured of meaningful lifelong work within the Zambawood family. The exceptional adults receive training and master their skills through help from our professional team. These include our service staff, farmers, chefs, hospitality trainers, artists, and sports coaches, many of whom give their time freely. These wonderful members of our family make a massive contribution and give us so much heart.”
Investing time and resources into a vast property like Zambawood is no walk in the park. When Rachel first surveyed the land, she didn’t see bareness—she saw potential waiting to be realized. Like any loving mother, Rachel stepped up with determination and took a hard swing at fate. Judging by what Zambawood has done for Julyan and the local community, she triumphed with a home run.
The Zambawood Experience
Zambawood has become a favorite venue for family reunions and corporate retreats, while keeping its core advocacy firmly in place. Guests visiting with family members who have special needs leave Zambawood deeply inspired, witnessed through Julyan’s flourishing presence in this beautiful sanctuary.
Today, Zambawood encompasses the main Zambawood Boutique House, Julyan’s Pine Beach Farm (where guests can participate in organic farming), Julyan's Surf BnB Café (an Art–Surf–Bar lodge for budget travelers located near the beach), and the Fun & Purpose Store by Zambawood, where beachwear, artisan accessories, and bottled farm harvests can be purchased.
For bookings and more information, visit Zambawood's Official Website and Facebook Page.
